RIBs UK Ltd, the UK importer of Gemini Rigid Inflatables set up a National Zapcat Racing Series in 2001 that comprised of 6 events.

Gemini Zapcat Racing uses a short shaft 50hp Tohatsu outboard motor with Boysen Power Reeds as the only modification.

The racing takes place on flat water, open sea and surf. The courses raced change depending on the sea state and location.  The concept is to make the course short, with repeated laps,  close to the shore making for close racing and spectacular views for spectators, sponsors and the media. So we have a safe, exciting and highly competitive environment for the 2002 National Zapcat Race Series that started in May and consists of 12 events at 10 different national venues.

What can I use it for?

You can race it next season for one thing!

Although derived for racing in an extreme array of sea conditions, Zapcats are incredibly versatile !

A Zapcat has a large carrying capacity for its size (850kg) and is CE approved to carry a maximum of five people, enabling it to be used for a variety of applications.

A Zapcat powered by a short shaft 50hp Tohatsu outboard is capable of achieving 25 knots with five persons aboard and equipment. Providing an exhilarating and comfortable ride for all those aboard. A Zapcat is rated to carry from a 30hp to 70hp two stroke outboard.

Also the Zapcats catamaran design makes it very stable platform when either at speed or rest, unlike monohulls. Making working from the Zapcat a pleasure when recovering objects from the water or operating equipment aboard. Zapcats can also be skied behind, used to tow water toys and even as a dive platform...

The Zapcats amazing cornering abilities enables those being towed behind it to participate in a truly awesome experience.

A Zapcat is what ever you want it to be !

 If you want to see what this sport is all about then why not try one of our Zapcat experiences.

Option1 - Zapcat Taster! £35.00
Simply book with us for a session on a Zapcat with an experienced instructor who will take a Zapcat through it's paces with you in it. After that you will get to have a go at the controls.

Option2 - Zapcat RYA Level 1&2 Powerboat Course £250.00
Check out the description of this course on our Power Boat Courses Page.
We will train you to drive one of these beasts!
In order for us to sell you one in any case we require you to be at least Royal Yachting Association Powerboat Level 2 (or International Equivalent) qualified.
At the end of this course you will have a qualification which you can use anywhere in the world and have a glimpse of the real capabilities of the Zapcat.

Option3 - Buy a Zapcat! £6700
Before a Zapcat is released by ESC, whether it be for race or recreational use. Proof of a Royal Yachting Association Powerboat Level 2 Certificate (or International Equivalent) must be displayed by the owner. Then, and only then, can you buy a Zapcat.
If you don't have the required qualification you can do the course with us for £250.00 and if you decide you want one pay us a further £750.00 as a deposit. This total of a £1000.00 deposit will secure a Zapcat in one of the available colours (white, blue, red, yellow, turquoise) and your Zapcat race number for the next National Series.

The balance will be payable upon delivery.

Please contact ESC for more information on ZapCats.